Gemsbok are native to the arid regions of Southern Africa, such as the Kalahari Desert. They can survive in very high temperatures and when deprived of drinking water use several measures to minimise their water needs, notably allowing their body temperature to rise from a normal 35.7°C to 45°C, then using evaporative cooling by nasal panting and sweating.They also concentrate their urine and absorb all possible moisture. Gemsbok mostly feed on nutritious leaves, grasses and herbs. During the dry season they feed on flowers and will also browse for food. To supplement water requirements they dig for succulents and eat tsamma melons.